President Gotabaya Rajapaksa says that there is no truth in the reports that the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), Ajith Nivard Cabraal, has been asked to step down. 

In a statement issued by the PMD, the President is quoted as saying that he has every confidence in the Governor of the Central Bank, Ajith Nivard Cabraal, who will act as a powerful force in responding to the serious economic challenges facing the country.

With reference to news reports that CBSL Governor was asked to step down, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa today said, “The news stories that Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal has been requested to step down is completely false.

“Governor Cabraal enjoys my fullest confidence and trust and has been a tower of strength in responding to the grave economic challenges faced by the country.

“The IMF delegation did not discuss about officials, and the talks, at which Governor Cabraal too was present, covered only the monetary issues.

“I have personally urged Governor Cabraal not to be discouraged by these mischievous and fake stories, and to continue his all-important work for the stability and growth of our country,” the President was quoted as saying.

Certain media reports had claimed today that the CBSL Governor had been asked to step down from his position based on the advice of the visiting delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

IMF Asia and Pacific Department Director Changyong Rhee had met with President Rajapaksa on Tuesday (March 15) at the Presidential Secretariat while the President yesterday announced that the government will seek IMF assistance to resolve the country’s economic crisis. 

The President had said his government was in discussions with the IMF, other agencies and countries on deferring loan repayments.

“Subsequent to my discussions with the International Monetary Fund, I have decided to work with them after examining the advantages and disadvantages,” Rajapaksa said in an address to the nation.